Action: Technical Sergeant Leonard F. Osiek, 35024808, Infantry, United States Army, for gallantry in action near ***, Normandy, France, on 31 July 1944. When it became necessary for his platoon to withdraw from a position because of heavy enemy fire from its front and flank, Sergeant Osiek, platoon sergeant, acting on his own initiative, grabbed a light machine gun covered the withdrawal of his platoon, remaining in position until all elements of his platoon had taken cover behind a hedgerow to the rear. Then, firing the machine gun from his hip, he walked backwards toward the hedgerow and was in the act of crossing it when he was killed by enemy fire. The gallantry in action of Sergeant Osiek in placing the welfare of his organization above his own life pays the highest tribute to his character as a soldier and is in accord with the high traditions of the military service.
Entered military service from Ohio.Details: Posthumously awarded.
Headquarters 35th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 25 (25 August 1944).

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